Urhobo News

Justice P. I. Ajoku of the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State has convicted and sentenced an internet fraudster; Kelvin Ifeanyi to a one-year jail term in the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre.

He was jailed on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 upon being arraigned by the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a one-count charge bordering on obtaining money under false pretence contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.

The count charge reads: “That you, Kelvin Ifeanyi on or about the 21st day of July 2022 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud obtained the sum of $2,400 (Two Thousand Four Hundred Dollars) Worth of Bitcoin Currency from one John Dubhthaigh a foreign national under the pretence that you are a Crypto Trader which pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act”.

He pleaded guilty to the one count charge when it was read to him.

In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, E.K. Bakam, tendered some documents to establish his case and prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant as charged

Counsel to the defendant, E. D. Ani prayed the court to temper justice with mercy, stressing that the “defendant is a first-time offender with no previous criminal records”.

Justice Ajoku, found the defendant guilty, convicted, and sentenced him to one year in the Correctional Service with One Hundred Thousand Naira as an option of fine (N100,000) payable into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The court also ordered that the iPhone 11 Promax and one Redmi mobile device recovered from the convict should be forfeited to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The sum of Two Thousand, Four Hundred United States Dollars ($2,400) recovered from the convict should also be forfeited and returned to the victim, John Dubhthaigh, a foreigner.

The judge also ordered the convict to depose an affidavit of good behavior before the court.

Ifeanyi started his journey to the Correctional Service when he was arrested by operatives of the Commission, alongside his syndicate members for internet-related crimes. He was charged to court and convicted.

Media & Publicity

October 28, 2023

Civil Society Organizations reiterated support for EFCC, in the task of fighting economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption.

Civil Society Organizations, CSOs in Oyo State, have reiterated their support for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the task of fighting economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption.

They made this commitment in Ibadan, Oyo State on Thursday, October 26, 2023 at the “EFCC/CSOs Engagement“ programme that held in the State.

Executive Chairman, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, lauded the strategic roles CSOs are playing in the fight against corruption, stating that engagement with them was to share ideas on how to deepen the fight against corruption. The EFCC boss, who spoke through the Ibadan Zonal Commander, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE1 Halima Mustapha Rufa’u, expressed appreciation to the CSOs for reviews of the Commission’s works so as to enhance its performance.

“You are one of the most critical allies of the EFCC. Our partnership has been progressive and is still evolving. We greatly value your critical reviews as they have ensured that we remain faithful to the Nigerian people in the discharge of our mandate”, he said. He further urged then to continue to align themselves with the progressive aspirations of Nigerians for corruption to be reduced to the barest minimum, if not completely eliminated.

In her Speech, Deputy Director, Creative Communications, DCE Nwayinma Okeano, challenged CSOs to correct people’s misconception about EFCC’s anti-corruption activities in their various communities. “Reorient the public about what we do. Let me say clearly that no crime is too big or too small. The same way we are arresting politicians, is also the same way we are arresting internet fraudsters”, she said. She reassured them that the EFCC is open to the public, urging them to always send complaints and petitions using various channels of communication.

The CSOs, on their part, came up with suggestions in areas they think the EFCC can explore. Dr. Rosemary Odigbo, one of the arrow heads of the group, stressed that, the fight against corruption should not be left to the EFCC alone, pointing out that all citizens and stakeholders have roles to play through strategic partnerships. She enjoined the Commission to explore other areas in sending the anti-corruption message, such as entertainment, social media, partnering with telecommunication organizations, frequent town hall meetings, creating and sustaining advocacy groups, among others.

Discussions also centered on how to incorporate corruption studies into school curriculum across the country. “As parents, it is our duty to start this fight from home when our children are young, encourage them to learn handwork to earn a living, because unemployment is one of the reasons why a lot of our youths are into crimes”, they said.

Additionally, “we also want EFCC to go after musicians and celebrities who are promoting yahoo practices in their songs and lifestyle. They want the Commission to work more with the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission, NBC and the National Film and Video Censor Board for the regulation of contents that are not edifying the public. “ they said.

At the end of the interaction, a Communique to help strengthen the working relationship between the EFCC and CSOs in the Ibadan Zonal Command was issued.

Media & Publicity

October 28, 2023.

PDP BOARD OF TRUSTEES MOURNS PROF. STELLA EFFAH-ATTOE

The Board of Trustees extends our most profound condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by the remarkable presence of Prof. Effah-Attoe.

Her loss is deeply felt, and the void left by her passing is immeasurable.

Professor Stella Effah-Attoe was not only a woman of exceptional intellect and grace but also an inspirational figure whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our party and the wider community.

Prof. Effah-Attoe’s dedication and leadership as the Woman Leader were unparalleled. She was a source of strength and inspiration to countless members and a beacon of hope in our quest for progress and inclusivity. Her commitment to advancing the cause of women’s rights and empowerment was unwavering, and her legacy will continue to guide our actions and initiatives.

We remember Prof. Effah-Attoe for her wisdom, kindness, and tireless efforts in advocating for the well-being of women and marginalized communities.

Her scholarly contributions, philanthropic work, and exemplary character have left an enduring impact on all of us.

In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Prof. Effah-Attoe’s family as they cope with the loss of a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. We share in their grief and hope they find solace in the knowledge that her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

As we come to terms with this profound loss, let us all strive to carry forward the values and principles that Prof. Effah-Attoe held dear. Let her life and work be an enduring testament to the change that can be achieved through compassion, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to the betterment of society.

The Board will surely miss her.

May she rest in peace.

H.E Sen. Adolphus Wabara, Ph.D

Ag. Chairman

PDP Board of Trustees

Governor Seyi Makinde mourns demise of PDP National Women Leader

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed shock over the death of the National Women Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prof Stella Effah-Attoe.

The governor described the demise of Effah-Attoe, a member of the party’s National Working Committee, as a huge loss to the PDP family and to women in politics.

He expressed heartfelt condolences to her family, the PDP NWC, the entire PDP family in the country and the people of Cross River State, where she hailed from, praying to God to grant repose to her soul and stand by everyone she left behind.

The governor said: “I received the news of the death of the National Women Leader of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prof Stella Effah-Attoe, with a great shock.

“I commiserate with her immediate family, the PDP NWC, the entire members of the party across the country and the government and people of Cross River State over this huge loss.

“Prof Effah-Attoe was an amiable and straightforward leader, who gave her best to protect the interest of the womenfolk in the PDP and contributed her quota to see to the success of the PDP.

“She will be sorely missed. It’s my prayer that God grants repose to her soul and stand by everyone she left behind.”

Signed

Sulaimon Olanrewaju

Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor

October 30, 2023.

Fubara dares Wike, Rivers State lawmakers

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State on Monday said he has not committed any offence to warrant impeachment by the Rivers State House of Assembly.

“Let them come out and tell Rivers people the offence I have committed to warrant any impeachment,” the governor said while addressing his supporters at the Assembly Complex.

The governor, who assured the people of the state of getting the dividends of democracy, said he would speak on the matter at the appropriate time.

“Let me assure the people of Rivers that I will continue to ensure that you get the dividends of democracy. At the appropriate time I will address the press,” he said.

A fresh crisis engulfed the Rivers Assembly amidst rumours of an impending impeachment procedure against Fubara as the House on Monday removed its leader, Edison Ehie.

The House members led by their Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, served an impeachment notice on Fubara before they fled for safety as tear gas was fired outside the Complex.

Addressing his supporters, who protested the development outside the Assembly Complex, the governor said he has not done anything to warrant an impeachment proceeding by the Assembly.

The development occurred hours after a fire broke out at the Assembly Complex on Sunday night.

It was unclear if the fire was connected with the political imbroglio but rumours of a rift between Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike who is now Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister have been brewing for some time now.

The state Assembly reportedly signed an impeachment notice on Governor Siminalaye Fubara.

In a session that was presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon Martins Amaewhule and attended by a good number of members, the Leader of the House, Hon Edison Ehie and those loyal to the governor were suspended.

The explosion that occurred in the Assembly on Sunday night was alleged to have been a ploy to stop the lawmakers from gaining access to the Assembly on Monday.

As early as 7 a.m., some lawmakers made their way into the House and immediately commenced plenary where they all signed the impeachment notice on the governor.

Meanwhile, the entire Moscow Road leading to the Rivers State House of Assembly has been barricaded by armed policemen.

Isale Eko Descendants Donates Medical Supplies To Commemorate Oba Akiolu’s 80th Birthday

The Isale Eko Descendants’ Union has extended warm congratulations to the esteemed Lagos community and beyond on the occasion of the 80th birthday of His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos.

In a press statement signed by its Chairman, Adeniji Kazeem, SAN, the IDU also announced the donation of medical supplies to the Iga Idungaran Community Health Centre to mark the birthday of the revered monarch.

The Union said the significant milestone is a testament to a lifetime of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to their beloved community.

Born on October 29, 1943, HRM Oba Akiolu is a distinguished alumnus of Ansar-Ud-Deen Grammar School, Surulere, and a graduate of law from the University of Lagos. With a remarkable 32-year career in the Nigeria Police Force, he ascended to the position of Assistant Inspector-General of Police in 1999. His glorious journey led him to be crowned as the 21st Oba of Lagos on May 24, 2003, succeeding the late Oba Adeyinka Oyekan, who reigned from 1965 to March 1, 2003.

The IDU said Oba Akiolu’s legacy is deeply interwoven with the history and identity of Lagos, saying his reign has been marked by wisdom, grace, and a profound dedication to the well-being of his subjects. The group insisted that under His Majesty’s leadership, Lagos has witnessed remarkable growth and development, and the city continues to thrive as a centre of commerce, culture, and tradition.

The group said Oba Akiolu is celebrated for his benevolence, candour, and bravery, stressing further that the monarch’s impact on the lives and well-being of the people of Lagos and Nigeria is profound.

IDU added that the retired Assistant Inspector General of Police should also be celebrated for his modernization efforts at the palace, which include the construction of a guest house, library, and health centre, adding that the Iga Idunganran Health Centre, funded entirely by the Oba, provides free healthcare services to the community.

“He has also been instrumental in securing employment opportunities for numerous Lagos indigenes within the Lagos State, Federal Government, and private organizations. Additionally, he has been at the forefront of the return of properties belonging to Lagos indigenes, including the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, from the Federal Government.

“Our revered monarch has been a resolute and effective leader, ensuring peace and harmony in his domain through timely and astute guidance to his subjects and governmental bodies. Oba Akiolu’s reign has witnessed the progress of his subjects in all aspects of human life, including the attainment of the highest offices in the nation.

“As the traditional custodian of our heritage, Oba Akiolu has been a source of inspiration and guidance to Isale Eko and the wider Lagos community. His commitment to preserving our cultural heritage while also promoting progress and modernization is a testament to his visionary leadership.

K’ade pe lori,

ki bata pe lese

Ki ase pe lenu

Omo obalufon,

Omo erin jogun ola,

Omo Oba ado kenme, bini arokun tayo,

Omo oba ologunkutere asa logun,

Orisha ni e be ,

e ma be kutere,

Orisha a gba obi,

kutere a gba odindin ori eni,

omo atupa idunganran,

Igba odun odun kan ni oooooo Olowo Eko Baba Fuad

We wish His Royal Majesty, many more years of purposeful leadership as the Oba of Lagos, filled with good health and tranquillity,” Kazeem was quoted in the press statement.

October 29, 2023

Press Statement

PDP Mourns National Woman Leader, Prof. Effah-Attoe

…Says Her Death is a Devastating Loss to Nigeria

The National Working Committee (NWC) and indeed the entire Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family, is utterly devastated over the death of the National Woman Leader of our great Party, Prof. Stella Effah-Attoe.

Our hearts bleed! Our Party and Nation have lost one of our best and brightest. Prof. Effah-Attoe’s death is a huge blow not only to her family but also to the PDP, the academic community, the people of Cross River State and indeed the Nation.

Prof. Effah-Attoe was very brilliant, towering and magnificent in all spheres, but yet lived an exceptionally humble, pleasant, sociable, gracious, compassionate and loving life. She touched lives in many positive ways and made pivotal contributions towards the growth and development of our Nation.

She was a dedicated teacher, politician, author and fearless mobilizer who always stood for the truth; fought for justice, equity and fairness and gave her energy, passion and resources in the pursuit of the rights of women in Nigeria.

Over the years, as Commissioner for Education and later Commissioner for Information and Culture in Cross River State, member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, member of Governing Board of several Cross River State and Federal Government Agencies and Programmes; a University Professor and one of the most decorated scholars in Nigeria, she distinguished herself as an amazon with extraordinary intellectual capacity for leadership and national service.

As the National Woman Leader of our great Party, she brought in an uncommon intellectual aptitude into Party administration especially in mobilizing women for greater participation in politics and governance.

The PDP will always remember her tireless contributions alongside other PDP leaders in the effort to rebrand and strengthen our great Party in the build-up to the 2023 general elections in line with the mission to rescue, rebuild and redirect our nation from misrule.

Prof Effah-Attoe’s death has left a huge vacuum in our Party but we take solace in the fact that she lived a devout Christian life, triumphed in her chosen path and left indelible marks in the service of the Nation and humanity.

The PDP commiserates with her immediate family, the people of Ikun in Biase Local Governnment Area of Cross River State, the Academic Community, the Cross River State Chapter of the PDP and the people of Cross River State.

Our Party prays to God to grant us all the fortitude to bear the loss; and to the faithful departed, an eternal rest in His bosom.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

Three Day Seminar on Protocol and Security Closes in Abuja

First Lady admonishes participants to go to their various states and pass on the lessons learnt

Wives of top government functionaries and other top female officials in Nigeria say they will strive to enhance the image of the country by paying more attention to their public conduct and security.

They made this collective resolution at the end of a three-day seminar on protocol and security, convened by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON in Abuja.

After eight papers delivered by experts on security, protocol, etiquette, improved public conduct and diplomatic relations, participants at the three-day seminar take stock.

For many of the participants who cut across former First Ladies of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Members of the National Assembly, wives of NASS members, Wives of Governors and former governors, Female Deputy Governors, Ministers, wives of ministers, Wives of Service Chiefs among others, the 3 day seminar was an eye opener for them especially as it relates to security issues.

The participants expressed appreciation to the First Lady for building their capacity as role models and image makers for the country.

With the First Lady and former First Ladies, Turai Yaradua and Dame Patience Jonathan making inputs, the session recalled some of the lessons learnt during the seminar, particularly those that dwelt on the need for cultural intelligence, security awareness and proper conduct among participants and other women on the social media.

A meet and greet session by the convener of the seminar, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, set a relaxed tone day, as participants availed themselves the opportunity to interact with the First lady and share ideas on diverse issues.

The gathering had the opportunity to also view the video on the “Every Home a Garden” competition by the Renewed Hope Initiative, an Initiative of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON. The competition which is open to every woman from all the States of the federation, including the FCT entails them planting a garden at home whereby the harvest can provide food on their table and enough to give their neighbor. The winner of the competition which will be announced in December 2024 has a prize money of N20million naira.

The 3-day seminar on Protocol and Security was rounded up with the presentation of certificate of participation to the over 800 participants.

SIGNED

Busola kukoyi

SSA Media to the First lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

28th October,2023

Atiku Abubakar addresses journalists Monday

Press Invitation

The Presidential Candidate of our great Party, the PDP, in the February 25, 2023 Presidential election and former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, GCON, Wazirin Adamawa, will address a crucial Press Conference on issues of serious importance to the Nation.

Date: Monday, October 30, 2023

Venue: PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja

Time: 11am Prompt

Signed:

Office of the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU FELICITATES FOREMOST JURIST, JUSTICE EMMANUEL AYOOLA AT 90

President Bola Tinubu celebrates Justice Emmanuel Ayoola, renowned jurist and retired Supreme Court judge, on his 90th birthday.

President Tinubu describes the foremost retired justice as a trailblazer and a fine example of integrity and honour in Nigeria’s judiciary.

“Justice Ayoola is among the pace-setters of the Nigerian judiciary. He is renowned for his discipline, diligence, honour, and unwavering integrity.

“He is one of those distinguished jurists whose hard work, brilliance, fortitude, and patriotism built and strengthened the Nigerian judiciary,” the President says.

President Tinubu wishes the foremost justice many more years in good health.

Justice Ayoola retired from the Supreme Court in 2003. He had served as the Chief Justice of the Gambia from 1983 to 1992 and was Vice President of the World Judges Association in 1991.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

October 27, 2023

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW FEDERAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION LEADERSHIP TEAM

As one of fourteen Federal Executive Bodies into which Section 154 of the Nigerian Constitution (1999, Amended) empowers the president to appoint its Chairman and members, President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of the following Nigerians to serve in the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), subject to the confirmation of the Nigerian Senate:

(1) Prof. Tunji Olaopa — Chairman

(2) Dr. Daudu Ibrahim Jalo — Member (Representing Adamawa | Gombe | Taraba)

(3) Ms. Gekpe Grace Isu — Member (Representing Akwa Ibom | Cross River)

(4) Dr. Chamberlain Nwele — Member (Representing Anambra | Ebonyi | Enugu)

(5) Mr. Rufus N. Godwins — Member (Representing Rivers | Delta | Bayelsa)

(6) Dr. Adamu Hussein — Member (Representing Niger | FCT)

(7) Mr. Aminu Nabegu — Member (Representing Jigawa | Kano)

( Ms. Hindatu Abdullahi — Member (Representing Kaduna | Katsina)

(9) Mr. Shehu Aliyu — Member (Representing Kebbi | Sokoto | Zamfara)

(10) Ms. Odekunle Rukiyat Aduke — Member (Representing Kogi | Kwara)

(11) Mr. Jide Jimoh — Member (Representing Lagos | Ogun)

(12) Dr. Festus Oyebade — Member (Representing Osun | Oyo)

Upon confirmation, the new FCSC leadership is expected to commence work with effect from November 30, 2023, following the expiration of tenure of the current Federal Civil Service Commission Chairman and membership on November 29, 2023.

The President anticipates that the new FCSC leadership will competently facilitate the transformation, reorientation, and digitization of the Federal Bureaucracy to enable, and not stifle, growth and enhanced private sector participation in the development of the Nigerian economy, in full adherence to the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 27, 2023

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CELEBRATES REVERED TRADITIONAL RULER, OBA RILWAN AKIOLU OF LAGOS, AT 80

President Bola Tinubu celebrates his long-time ally, friend, and confidant, His Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos State, on his 80th birthday.

President Tinubu describes the revered monarch as a fountain of wisdom, knowledge, and a staunch custodian of the rich culture and traditions of Lagos.

“Oba Akiolu and I have come a long way. He is my confidant. He is a dear friend I hold in high esteem for his integrity, honour, and forthrightness. He is always generous with his wise counsel and always willing to offer his fatherly guidance.

“Baba is a defender of the truth and his people. My achievements as Lagos State Governor are partly due to his support and counsel. His Majesty’s reign has brought peace, progress, and development to the good people of Lagos,” the President says.

The President thanks the Eleko of Eko for his unceasing prayers and support, recalling his interventions over the years, even in trying times.

“Today, I celebrate an extraordinary monarch whose wit and foresight are peerless. May His Majesty live long, and may his reign on the throne of his fathers continue to be prosperous,” President Tinubu prays.

The Oba of Lagos is a monarch of many achievements. He rose to the pinnacle of his professional career, retiring as an Assistant Inspector-General of Police. The Oba is a fellow of the Nigerian Law School.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

October 28, 2023

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS IYALODE ALABA LAWSON

President Bola Tinubu has expressed grief over the passing of Iyalode Alaba Lawson, MFR.

The President described Chief Lawson as an enterprising, courageous, astute, and distinguished businesswoman and leader.

“Iyalode Lawson epitomised enterprise, brilliance, and ingenuity. Her death is a very painful loss. May the Almighty God grant her eternal rest,” the President said.

Iyalode Lawson was the former president of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA).

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

October 28, 2023

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS OHINOYI OF EBIRALAND, DR. ADO IBRAHIM

President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the government and people of Kogi State on the passing of the revered traditional ruler, His Majesty, Dr. Ado Ibrahim, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.

The President said the death of the Ohinoyi is a painful loss, describing the late monarch as peace-loving, affable, and cerebral.

“The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland was in a class of his own. He was highly respected and admired for his deep insights, wisdom, and sophistication. He had a masterful way of handling issues. He was very knowledgeable and wise.

“May Almighty Allah grant His Majesty Aljannah Firdaus,” the President prayed.

President Tinubu asked the good people of Kogi State to take solace in the legacy of peace and fellowship left behind by the late monarch.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

October 29, 2023

SERAP writes INEC, seeks recognition of right to vote securely

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) “to use the mandates of INEC to pursue constitutional and legal reforms that would explicitly recognize Nigerians’ right to vote and to vote securely in free, fair and honest elections as a fundamental right.”

SERAP also urged him “to promote constitutional and legal reforms that would contain explicit mandatory provisions on internet voter registration, and the use of modern technology, including in casting and counting, voter registration and systems for reporting results.”

In the letter dated 28 October 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “The explicit recognition of the right to vote and to vote securely would improve the right to representative democracy in the country.”

SERAP said, “The continuing resistance by politicians to bring the country’s electoral legal rules up to date with modern technology, and make the use of technology mandatory in our electoral process is entirely inconsistent and incompatible with Nigerians’ right to effectively participate in their own government.”

According to SERAP, “Large-scale election infrastructure insecurity poses serious threats to the fundamental right to vote that INEC can no longer ignore. The challenges facing the electoral process can be addressed by a swift adaptation and innovation in both election laws and election technology.”

The letter, read in part: “Democracy works best when everyone participates. Legally enforceable right to vote is the bedrock of any democratic society. The right to vote and to vote securely is too important to be left to the whims of politicians.”

“Confidence in the electoral process is on the decline. Many Nigerians are expressing concerns about the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.”

“Nigerian politicians have little incentive to pursue genuine constitutional and legal reforms that would improve the exercise by Nigerians of their right to participation in the electoral process and in the mechanisms of government.”

“INEC has constitutional and statutory responsibilities to promote and advance the right of eligible Nigerians to vote and to vote securely as part of their internationally recognized right to political participation.”

“Under section 2(b) of the Electoral Act 2022, the commission ‘shall have power to promote knowledge of sound democratic election processes.’ INEC also has the constitutional mandates to take the recommended measures under Section 153 of the Nigerian Constitution and paragraph 15(a) of the third schedule.”

“INEC has the mandates to promote, protect and facilitate the exercise of the right to vote and to vote securely as a fundamental right. Exercising such mandates would rebuild public confidence in the ability of the commission to effectively perform its responsibilities and to act in good faith.”

“The major problem facing the country’s democracy is the lack of respect for Nigerians’ right to participation and the concomitant lack of trust in election results. If citizens do not believe in the election process, then the entire system of democratic government becomes a questionable enterprise.”

“The explicit recognition of legally enforceable fundamental right to vote and to vote securely in free, fair and honest elections would protect the right to participation, safeguard and strengthen the credibility and integrity of the country’s democracy.”

“It would rein politicians who continue to abuse the electoral rules to distort and undermine the right to participation with almost absolute impunity. It would also amplify the voices of the people, not corrupt politicians, and modernize and secure the country’s future elections against any threats.”

“The country’s electoral legal rules are entirely inconsistent and incompatible with the requirements of the right to political participation, which is explicitly guaranteed under article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights which Nigeria has ratified.”

“The right to vote and vote securely would also impose clear obligations on the electoral commission and other authorities to ensure the ‘will of the people’ in elections, and to administer elections in an objective and neutral manner, and in conformity with modern technology.”

“The crisis confronting Nigerian elections and lack of public trust and confidence in the electoral process can be addressed if the right of Nigerians to vote and to vote securely is explicitly recognized as justiciable constitutional right.”

“Nigerians do not currently enjoy explicit and enforceable right to vote and to vote securely. As the 2023 general elections have shown, the absence of this right in the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] has seriously undermined the right of Nigerians to effectively participate in their own government, and the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.”

“Although the Nigerian Constitution provides in Section 14(1)(c) that, ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution’, this is not recognized as legally enforceable fundamental human right.”

“Unless INEC urgently begins the process of pushing for the explicit recognition of Nigerians’ right to vote and to vote securely, politicians would continue to use the country’s antiquated electoral legal rules for personal gain, and to deny the people their right to participation.”

“We would be grateful if INEC begins the process of taking the recommended measures within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel INEC to comply with our requests in the public interest.”

“SERAP notes that ahead of the 2023 general elections, INEC disclosed that over seven million Nigerians who carried out their voter pre-registration online but could not complete the process at physical centres would not be entitled to vote.”

“The right to vote and to vote securely as well as the right of the people to expect representative government through the process of elections is basic to democracy.”

“Without the explicit constitutional recognition of the right to vote and to vote securely as a fundamental right, millions of Nigerians would continue to be denied their right to participate in their own government.”

“The Nigerian Constitution and Electoral Act are grossly inadequate to guarantee citizens’ right to political participation which encapsulates the right to vote and to vote securely. Our electoral legal rules are based on a set of archaic notions that do not serve the core function of participation and a representative democracy.”

“The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance explicitly assert the right to vote as part of the fundamental right to participate in democracy.”

“Article 25 of the Covenant, article 13 of the African Charter and articles 2, 3 and 4 of the African Charter on Democracy contain provisions on the right to participation. Nigerian electoral laws ought to be such that would give effect to the voters’ will and uphold the popular mandate through free, fair, and honest elections.”

“The right to vote in a democracy is important because so many other matters depend upon its exercise. Nigeria ought not to be stuck with electoral rules, structures and procedures that violate basic ideas of participation, fairness and representative government.”

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

29/10/2023

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202